Ryebird Introduce
Nestled in the heart of Fairfield, Connecticut, **Ryebird** is a distinctive dining establishment that has quickly become a local favorite, offering a fresh take on the classic American tavern. Described as an "upscale family dive bar," Ryebird successfully blends high-quality, chef-driven cuisine with an accessible, cozy, and trendy atmosphere. The restaurant focuses on serving "extremely good cocktails and food" in a space that plays vinyl records and features mood lighting, giving it a unique, intimate feel that patrons appreciate for everything from family dinners to late-night dates.
Ryebird’s culinary identity is rooted in Americana with a notable Down South influence, expertly prepared by a team focused on quality and consistency. While the concept may have originally centered on bourbon and chicken, it has evolved into a full-fledged restaurant and cocktail bar that eliminates the 'veto vote'—meaning there's something genuinely delicious for every palate. Key menu items highlight comfort and flavor, ranging from expertly prepared fried chicken—described as straightforward, not greasy, and perfectly cooked—to gourmet sandwiches, fresh seafood, and rich, scratch-made pasta dishes.
Beyond the delectable food, Ryebird is equally renowned as a destination for exceptional beverages. The bar boasts a strong cocktail list, a great beer selection, and a comprehensive wine list, ensuring a perfect pairing for any meal or occasion. The commitment to a great vibe and affordable, repeatable experience is what makes Ryebird a staple for those in the Fairfield County area looking for quality dining without the pretension. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick bite or planning a full dinner with friends, Ryebird offers a memorable and genuinely enjoyable experience.
Ryebird is conveniently located at **11 Unquowa Rd, Fairfield, CT 06824**, making it easily accessible for residents throughout the Fairfield area and surrounding towns. Its central position in Fairfield contributes to its popularity as a go-to spot for both weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings.
For the convenience of all guests, Ryebird is committed to accessibility. The establishment features:
- **Wheelchair accessible entrance**
- **Wheelchair accessible parking lot**
- **Wheelchair accessible restroom**
- **Wheelchair accessible seating**
Parking is also straightforward, with **Free street parking** available in the vicinity. The atmosphere is casual, cozy, and trendy, providing the perfect backdrop for the **Dinner** service. The restaurant offers **Seating** and **Table service** for a comfortable dine-in experience, along with **Outdoor seating** options when the Connecticut weather permits, allowing guests to enjoy their meal and drinks al fresco.
Ryebird is designed to cater to multiple dining needs, from quick meals to full-scale celebrations, with a focus on speed and quality.
- **Dine-in:** Enjoy the cozy, casual atmosphere with full **Table service** and comfortable **Seating**. **Accepts reservations**, which is highly recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.
- **Outdoor Seating:** Perfect for enjoying a meal or a great cocktail on a pleasant day.
- **Takeout:** Quick and easy pickup service for those on the go.
- **Delivery:** Convenient delivery service is available, bringing the full menu right to your door.
- **Full Bar Service:** Features a well-stocked **Bar onsite** offering **Alcohol, Beer, Cocktails, Hard liquor, and Wine**.
- **Takeaway Cocktails:** For adult beverages at home, the restaurant offers **750 ML batched cocktails** like the DON DRAPER OLD FASHIONED, WEST COAST SPICY MARGARITA, and FAIRFIELDS DAIQUIRI NO 1, complete with options for large ice cubes and cups.
- **Dining Times:** Primarily popular for **Dinner**, though menu items are well-suited for a substantial **Quick bite** or **Solo dining**.
- **Payments:** Accepts modern payment methods including **Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments**.
Ryebird distinguishes itself in the Fairfield culinary scene through its dedication to quality ingredients, creative preparation, and a stellar beverage program.
- **Great Cocktails and Bar Program:** A significant highlight is the cocktail list, featuring house martinis, Manhattans, and signature mixed drinks. The bar program is noted for its **Great beer selection** and **Great wine list**, appealing to all beverage enthusiasts. They even offer their own proprietary brand, Fairfields Rum.
- **Southern-Influenced Comfort Food:** The menu is rich with elevated comfort dishes, including their renowned fried chicken, available as a **Fried Plate** (tender, thigh, and wing) or as part of the massive **BUCKET OF CHIX** (fried chicken, mac + cheese, Caesar salad, ice cream sundae). The food is consistently praised for its delicious house-made sauces.
- **Signature Sandwiches:** A selection of gourmet sandwiches that serve as hearty meals, such as **The RYEBIRD** (Fried thigh, mayo, pickles, slaw) and **The Hot House** (Fried thigh, rye sauce, pickled jalapeño relish). They also offer **The Smasher**, a classic burger option.
- **Creative Starters and Small Plates:** Perfect for enjoying at the bar or sharing among **Groups**. Options include **Rye Fries** (shoestrings with house aioli), **Bacon Wrapped Shrimp**, **Corn Ribs** (lightly fried with cotija cheese), and a popular **Cheesy Bread**. The **Mac & Cheese** with toasted Ritz crackers is a favorite side dish.
- **Refined Large Plates and Seafood:** For a full dinner, options include the **Daily Pot Pie** (with a buttery crust), **Half Chicken**, the perfectly prepared **Salmon** (with smashed potatoes and garlic broccolini), and the **Prawn Dinner** (with wild rice and buttered peas).
- **Focus on Fast Service:** Despite the quality, one of the restaurant's standout features is its **Fast service**, making it an excellent choice for a satisfying meal without a long wait.
- **Diverse Salads and Bowls:** For lighter or healthier options, they offer flavorful choices like the **Paillard Salad**, **Harvest Grains** bowl, and the classic **Little Gem Caeser**.
To make a reservation, place a takeout order, or inquire about catering, Ryebird can be reached using the following details:
- **Address:** 11 Unquowa Rd, Fairfield, CT 06824, United States
- **Phone:** (203) 955-1052 (or +1 203-955-1052)
Choosing Ryebird means selecting an establishment that offers the perfect blend of high-end culinary standards and a relaxed, welcoming tavern atmosphere. For Connecticut locals, it’s worth choosing for several compelling reasons. The restaurant's true strength lies in its dual focus: it delivers on the promise of "extremely good food" and "extremely good cocktails." Patrons consistently rave about the quality of the main dishes, citing items like the roast chicken and seafood linguine with lemon butter sauce as truly "divine." If you are a fan of comfort food, the various chicken dishes and the **Daily Pot Pie** are excellent choices that embody the Southern-American influence.
Furthermore, Ryebird excels as a social destination. The **Great cocktails** and the trendy yet cozy vibe make it an ideal spot for a date night, a casual gathering with **Groups**, or a relaxing **Dinner** after a long week. The availability of **Reservations** and the **Fast service** ensure that your dining experience is hassle-free. While some early reviews noted inconsistent service or starter quality, the overall feedback highly praises the exceptional quality of the main dishes, the fries, and the innovative dessert offerings like the s'mores ice cream. For a dependable, upscale-casual American meal with a truly standout beverage program in Fairfield, Ryebird is an establishment that merits a visit.
Ryebird Services
Sandwiches
- The RYEBIRD $19.55
Fried thigh, mayo, pickles, slaw, brioche bun
- The Hot House $20.70
Fried thigh, rye sauce, pickled jalapeno relish, pepper dust, pickles
- The Day Boat $21.85
Pan seared fish, tartar, vegetables, brioche bun
- The Roaster $20.70
Pulled chicken, bbq sauce, pickled onion, on a baguette
- The Smasher $0.00
Prime rib, american, rye sauce, pickles
Takeaway
- DON DRAPER OLD FASHIONED 750 ML $62.10
Old grand dad bonded, bitters, dash of sugar
- WALKING WITH SPIDERS 750 ML $62.10
Gin, red cassis, elderflower
- 6 LARGE ICE CUBES $8.62
6 large 2" cubes
- CUPS WITH LIDS (8) $6.90
8 plastic cups with lids
- FAIRFIELDS DAIQUIRI NO 1 750 ML $62.10
Classic additive free white rum, lime juice, luxardo liqueur
- LEMONWORLD 750 ML $62.10
Nue vodka, 5th state limoncello, lemon juice, dash of lemonade
- WEST COAST SPICY MARGARITA 750 ML $62.10
Spicy house-made tequila blanco, fresh lime, orange curacao
- MEZCAL NEGRONI 750 ML $62.10
Ilegal mezcal, campari, sweet vermouth
- KENTUCKY HOME 750 ML $43.70
Unsweetened iced tea, creek water peach whiskey, peach spirit
- BAG OF ICE $13.80
2lb bag of small chips
Utensils
- Add Utensils $0.17
So we can reduce waste, please let us know if you need utensils.
Starters
- Crudite $14.95
French onion dip, veggies, chips
- Butcher Board $24.15
Mixed platter of cured meats, cheese, and accompaniments
- Corn Ribs $13.80
Lightly fried, cotija cheese, lime
- Bacon Wrapped Shrimp $14.00
Bbq sauce, large prawns
- Rye Fries $9.20
Shoestrings, house aioli
- Crispy Wings $0.00
5 or 10 pieces, daily sauces
- Taquitos $16.10
Crisp, cheesy delicious, with east la salsas
- Cheesy Bread $10.35
Gooey pizza bread, feta spread
- Mac & Cheese $9.00
Rich cheddar, toasted ritz crackers
- Blue Cheese Olives $9.20
Lightly fried, sauces
Dessert
- Chocolate Mousse $11.50
70% dark chocolate in a creamy rich thick pudding
Salads & Bowls
- Wedge $19.55
Iceberg, cherry tomatoes, house ranch dressing, cotija cheese. add bacon +3
- Paillard Salad $24.15
Thinly cut chicken breast pan seared, arugula, mixed greens, cherry tomato, champagne lemon vinaigrette
- Kale Salad $17.25
Avocado oil rubbed kale, lemon, radish, cucumber, fennel, re wine vinaigrette. add parmesan +3
- Little Gem Caeser $16.10
Gem lettuce, parmesan, toasted panko
- House Salad $13.80
Mixed greens, apple, champagne vinaigrette
- Harvest Grains $19.55
Warm grains, seeds, pickled veggies, sweet potato, roasted apples, mushroom viniagretter
- Beet Salad $19.55
Roasted beets, corn, red onion, cotija cheese, toasted pepitas
Lg Plates
- BUCKET OF CHIX $63.25
Fried chicken, mac + cheese, caesar salad, ice cream sundae
- Salmon $28.75
Smashed potatoes, garlic broccolini
- Fried Plate $21.85
Tender, thigh, wing, sauces, slaw pickles (all tenders +3)
- Half Chicken $26.45
Roast potatoes, asparagus
- Prawn Dinner $28.75
Plump shrimp, wild rice, sweet potato, buttered peas
- Daily Pot Pie $25.30
House-made buttery crust, with scratch-made filling. get it smothered with mushroom bourbon gravy +4
Bottled
- "The Thrilla" $14.95
Miller pony beer spiked with aperol and lemon juice in da' btl
Ryebird Details
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Delivery
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great beer selection
- Great cocktails
- Great wine list
Popular for
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Hard liquor
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Wine
Dining options
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Trendy
Crowd
- Groups
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Parking
- Free street parking
- Parking
Ryebird Photos










Ryebird Location
Ryebird
11 Unquowa Rd, Fairfield, CT 06824, USA
Ryebird Reviews
happy hourpricesatmospherecocktailsfriespatiotaquitosroasted chickenmargaritaseafood linguine
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1Perfect spot for a summer Friday happy hour! Service was fantastic. We initially went for the drinks, and the ones we had were decent (margarita was pretty tart for my taste—and I am someone who generally likes tart/not overly sweet drinks). But the food knocked it out of the park. The house made sauces (cilantro something and a ranch) were delicious with fries and roasted chicken. And the seafood linguine with lemon butter sauce was divine. Our waiter suggested the s'mores ice cream for dessert, and that was excellent as well. Will definitely be back!
August 15 · Naomi Figueroa (Discovering CT)I’m sorry but this was very underwhelming at best. Me and my fiancé came here tonight and probably won’t be back. Our server Carolyn was very pleasant with us, but not only was the rest of the service seemingly uninterested and mostly on their phones (including her at times), the charcuterie board was not worth the price (see pic). I’ve made a nicer assortment in my house. It tasted store bought. Our bill was over $60 for what felt like $30 worth of quality. I will say the fries were delicious but everything else was disappointing.
August 17 · Hannah BuckleyA new place in town, with a great vibe, bar and food. Been here a few times now. For drinks and happy hour, and dinner, and so far loving everything. The drink selection is great, the owner/manager and the hosts are all super lovely, and the food is fantastic. Quickly becoming one of our regular go to places.
March 31 · Alex MnatsakanovMy Wife and I wanted to try this place for some time and so we finally tried it today 8/24/25. 1 pm. The palce was amazing. customer service was the best which is the most importing thing we look for. From the start every one was so friendly, from the Owner Frank to the bartender Gabby, yes I spell it with 2 b 's although she told me its only one b. lol . Frank knows its stuff from one one the best old fashioned i have had to maybe one of the best spicy margerita my wife had. food was also amazing, the jazz music in the background just add to our experience there.We will def be back there soon.RW.
August 24 · ricardo williamsWe stumbled on a surprise here. This is a great local joint, but also a destination worth finding. If they’re serving the pot pie, you have to order it!
August 19 · Barb Hazelton
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